Singapore Airlines signs up for 787-10X, reorders A350s

Singapore Airlines has become the first airline to commit to Boeing’s as yet unlaunched stretch of the 787, the 787-10X, and at the same time has placed a significant reorder for Airbus’s A350-900, committing to 30 of each type.

The Singapore flag carrier says the 787-10X order is contingent on Boeing formally launching the aircraft, but deliveries are expected in the 2018-19 (Singapore) financial year. The 787-10Xs would be used on medium range routes, joinging the the 29 787-9s Singapore Airlines already has on order.

Meanwhile the firm order for 30 A350-900s also includes options for a further 20, which could be converted to the larger A350-1000. It is Singapore Airlines’ third order for the A350, and takes it total firm commitments to the type to 70 aircraft.

“Today’s aircraft orders are among the biggest in Singapore Airlines’ history, helping to ensure that we retain our industry leading position. They demonstrate our commitment to the Singapore hub and our confidence in the future for premium full-service travel,” said Singapore Airlines CEO, Goh Choon Phong. “These new aircraft will provide opportunities to grow and renew our fleet and enhance our network; benefiting customers by offering more travel options and the latest in-flight cabin products.”

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Singapore Airlines says these latest orders take to 126 the number of firm aircraft commitments it holds with Airbus and Boeing.

5 comments

SYD - LiamMay 31, 2013 - 2:47 pm

It’ll be nice to one day see and possibly read QF headline with a similar story, sadly the truth is vastly different with the QF management team. The best we’ll get to see is the B767 rebirth or Jetstar get new aircraft in place of the parent premium company.

Apart from Ah Lau’s reasons, an advantage of operating these two different (though similarly-sized) aircraft is that the 787-10 is expected to be more economical over medium ranges and the A350-900 over longer ranges.